A RESIDENT at a Worcester care home received a veteran’s badge on his 100th birthday.
Birthday celebrations were in full swing at Care UK’s Perry Manor, on Charles Hastings Way, when resident Leslie Ford turned 100 years ‘young’.
On the day, Brigadier Roger Brunt CBE DL, a Deputy Lieutenant of Worcestershire, visited the home for a special socially-distanced ceremony outdoors, where Leslie was presented with a veteran’s badge for his service during WWII, with his wife and children by his side.
The Brigadier also gave Leslie his 100th birthday card from HM The Queen. The team at Perry Manor organised a traditional birthday party at the home, complete with cake, birthday cards and a singalon
Born in Folkestone on August 10, 1920, Leslie joined the Royal Corps of Signals in 1940, before being demobilised in 1946. During his time in the army, he set up a rowing club while he was stationed in Cairo, and was one of the officers on duty during the Channel Dash, when German ships went through the English Channel.
Upon leaving the army, he became a valuer at HM Revenue and Customs, then known as the Inland Revenue, and married his wife Joan in 1947. Together, they have two children, a son and a daughter, two grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Katherine Matthews, home manager at Perry Manor, said: “It was an honour to be a part of such a special milestone in Leslie’s life, as he not only became a centenarian, but also received his veteran badge.
“Leslie has fond memories of his time in the army, especially while stationed in the Middle East, and takes great pride in being a former member of the Signals. Having a uniformed officer visiting the home gave him a wonderful opportunity to reminisce while celebrating his birthday with his loved ones.
“On behalf of everyone at Perry Manor, I’d like to say a big thank you to Brigadier Brunt for making Leslie’s day so special.
“It was a beautiful ceremony and we’re looking forward to celebrating many more milestones with him!”
A music enthusiast, Leslie started taking electric organ lessons when he retired, and has been playing ever since.
He’s also a keen rugby fan, and supports Gloucester and Harlequins.
